Question : International Rice Research Institute

(a) whether the Government is looking for some International Rice Research Institute in the country to grow the best quality and quantum of rice in the country and if so, the details thereof;

(b) the basic requirements to set up such kind of institute in the country including Karnataka;

(c) whether it is proposed to open such institutes under the Public Private Partnership model and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the Government has received any proposal from the Karnataka Government to open an International Rice Research Institute in the State; and

(e) if so, the details thereof along with the location selected for the purpose?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE

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(a) to (e): Yes, Madam. Government of India has approved to establish a Centre of International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) at campus of National Seed Research & Training Centre (NSRTC) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh to grow the best quality and quantum of rice in the country. This Centre will be first international Centre in the Eastern India and it will play a major role in harnessing and sustaining rice production in the region. It is expected to be a boon for food production and skill development in the Eastern India and similar ecologies in other South Asian and African Countries.

The basic requirement to set up such kind of Institute in the country include providing physical space for laboratories, offices, training classes, etc. within associated infrastructure and land.

No such proposal has been received under Public Private Partnership model and from the Government of Karnataka for setting up such kind of institute in Karnataka.

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